EMAKHAZENI – As a gospel artist, pastor and counsellor, Ashley Nitto Wish Myambo, popularly known as Pastor Wish, has built his journey around one purpose: giving people hope. Pastor Wish is also nominated for Best Gospel Artist/Group at the Nkangala Arts and Music Awards (NkAMA).
His journey began in church as a Sunday school singer at Izazi ZaMpumalanga Zion Church under Bishop Mayila. He later joined the choir and eventually became its leader.
Between 2008 and 2012, his passion for music saw him become involved in creating a platform that brought choirs from different areas together to compete. He participated with his own team and recorded several victories.
In 2016, Pastor Wish took his music further after meeting E. Mashele at S/N Studio, where he recorded his first album, Jesus Uyakhulula. The album received airplay on several radio stations.
Two years later, he released Uyangilusa UJesu, which earned him a nomination at the Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards. In 2020, his persistence paid off when he won Best Gospel Artist at the GAMA Awards.
He released the single Hipfune Hosi in 2023 and is currently working towards a new album.
But music is only one part of his calling. Pastor Wish also developed a passion for counselling after seeing people struggle with difficult circumstances.
“I started counselling because I have a passion for helping people who are going through difficult situations,” he says.
He pursued formal studies in counselling, obtaining a certificate, diploma and later a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling. He now offers individual, family, couples and children’s counselling, as well as support relating to chronic illness and mental health, and is registered with ASCHP as a wellness counsellor.
“I believe that sometimes people do not need someone to judge them. They need someone who is willing to listen, understand and walk with them through the difficult season,” he says.
His counselling work has also influenced his music. Through conversations with people experiencing broken relationships, rejection, loss, stress and trauma, he draws inspiration for messages of encouragement and hope.
“I want people to hear my songs and feel understood, encouraged and reminded that they can overcome difficult seasons,” he says.
His journey has not been without challenges, with the financial demands of recording, producing, promoting and travelling sometimes making it difficult to pursue his ambitions.
“Sometimes you have the vision and the talent, but financial limitations can make the journey difficult,” he says.
He finds inspiration in Isaiah 60:22: “When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen.”
Pastor Wish hopes to complete and release his new album, reach bigger platforms and compete again at the Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards. He also hopes to pursue opportunities at the South African Traditional Music Awards (SATMA) and other national awards.
Beyond music, he plans to continue with counselling, ministry and writing. He is also the writer of a drama titled Kurhandza Munhu Switika.
His next project is the Healing Night of Worship and Music Experience, scheduled for 16 October 2026, which will bring people together through music, faith and encouragement while building momentum towards his upcoming album.
For Pastor Wish, however, success is not measured only by awards, albums or the size of the stages he performs on.
“My greatest desire is for people to know Christ through my voice,” he says.
He also encourages people going through difficult times to speak to someone they trust and seek professional help when necessary.
“Sometimes speaking about what you are carrying is the first step towards healing,” he says.
For Pastor Wish, his purpose remains clear: to use his voice, faith and counselling work to give people hope.
“Your story is not over. There is still hope, and there is still a tomorrow.”
